“My hope is that children will grow and learn while reading my books. If they are smiling, imagining new possibilities and growing in hope along the way, I’ve accomplished what I’ve set out to do.”

- Haabiba Rothenberg-Whitney

Haabiba Rothenberg-Whitney creates warm and caring connections between young and old, neurotypical and neurodiverse, and the shy and outgoing. She often sees herself in her young students, especially the ones who sometimes struggle with big feelings. That inspired her to write stories that incorporate self-care strategies for children (and their parents and caregivers).

With a Bachelor's degree in Human Services and over 30 years of experience working with children and families, she's committed to making a difference in the lives of others. Her professional journey includes teaching English Language Arts, and a decade with the Boys & Girls Clubs Movement, where she thrived as a Director of Membership and Marketing at a local Club, and later as an Implementation Specialist for the National Organization, BGCA.  

Even though she is a busy educator, speaker, artist, writer, and technology professional, she remains passionate about her faith, service to others, and her beautiful, diverse family.  

The Shy Giraffe explores happy places near and far, in this poignant, imaginative adventure. Beautiful rhymes and characters invite readers to imagine their favorite, happy places while teaching a helpful emotional wellness strategy. "Everyone needs a happy place. A place to feel joy, a place to escape. A happy place is a place that you choose. A place to feel safe just being you." You'll want to have this beautiful book in your collection, as a favorite story and an inviting journey to magical, beautiful and happy places. Written by Haabiba Rothenberg-Whitney and illustrated by Dawn Rossi, this children's picture book will delight and inspire the young and the young at heart.

Author
Haabiba Rothenberg-Whitney

Publication Date
April 2, 2025

ISBN
1963453026

Illustrator
Dawn Rossi

Age Range
3 - 7

Series
Shy Giraffe Stories, #1

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I love how Rothenberg-Whitney guides the reader in navigating their imagination to discover and explore their “happy place.” In therapy, we’ve encouraged clients to go to their “happy place” when they need help grounding themselves and regulating their emotions. This strategy helps them manage and cope with unpleasant feelings effectively, and this book supports this strategy gracefully.

Tell Me About Your Happy Place is more than just a book; it’s a powerful tool that fosters healthy minds, souls, and spirits.
— Elizabeth Roman, MSW
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